The Grand County High School boys soccer team lost at Manti in an 8-0 shutout on Thursday, April 3.

Juan Frutos led the Templars with four goals as Manti easily defeated the Red Devils.

“We had our chances, but we got down and things just kind of unraveled,” said GCHS head coach Mick Dunlavey. “One of our weaknesses is team speed, and to counteract that we’ve tried implementing a disciplined defense. Sometimes, we get into a panic mode, and that affects our mental attitude. Manti is a good team and they just put it away.”

Dunlavey said the team is working to improve its confidence on the field and hopes to avenge the loss when it plays Manti again this week.

“We have been trying to build a sense of confidence, trust, and teamwork among our players,” Dunlavey said. “We have a rematch with them this week, so hopefully we will give them a better game.”

Dunlavey said that despite the tough loss, he is encouraged by the team’s never-say-die attitude. “They don’t give up, even if they are out of gas. They still keep trying.”

The loss dropped the Red Devils’ record to 5-3 overall with three region games remaining, each of which is against an opponent that has previously defeated Grand.

After this week’s rematch with Manti at Moab on April 10, the Red Devils will have a week off for spring break. Grand is then scheduled to play Gunnison at Moab on Tuesday, April 22. The Red Devils’ final regular season game is at Wasatch Academy in Monroe on Saturday, April 26.

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